Eagles rookie Earl Wolff ready to start against Broncos

Earl Wolff is ready to make his first NFL start for the Philadelphia Eagles if safety Patrick Chung cannot go against the Denver Broncos on Sunday.

“Every week, I prepare like I’m a starter,” Wolff said to the team’s website. “You never know what can happen even when you’re not the starter, so I’m preparing even more. I’m out there with the ones and getting reps with them, which is going to help me from a communication standpoint … When you’re out there with them, it just allows you to get a better feel of (the defense).”

Chung injured his shoulder against Kansas City, he was sidelined for a second straight practice on Wednesday.

“It’s going to be a good opportunity,” said Wolff. “(Manning) is one of the best quarterbacks to ever play the game. I have to study even more this week and go even harder in the film room, because you never know what he can do to you. He can pick you apart. He’ll sit there and play games with you. I watched the game last Monday and he just made it look so easy. We have to be prepared for anything when it comes to playing against Peyton.”

The rookie safety out of North Carolina State has seen the his number of snaps increase each week, and his fellow teammates are noticing his improved play.

“He’s been great,” said Nate Allen. “He’s getting that experience under his belt. He’s done good things for us and he’s ready.”

Even if Wolff doesn’t start this week, he will still see significant time against one of the league’s best quarterbacks in Peyton Manning.

“(Manning) might try to pick on me because I’m a rookie, but I’m ready for whatever he throws at me,” Wolff said. “I’m a competitor, so whatever comes at me, I’m ready for it.”